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http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/28/wizard101-and-pirate101-rack-up-50-million-players-combined/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/28/wizard101-and-pirate101-rack-up-50-million-players-combined/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The Spiral, KingsIsle's online universe, is one of the most underrated success stories in the MMO genre. After six years of operation, Wizard101 (and its spin-off Pirate101) have tallied up over 50 million lifetime players (that's total players ever).

The big numbers don't stop there, either. These two games have seen more than 1.46 trillion gold earned, 2.1 billion quests completed, and 3 million player homes inhabited. One pet-happy player even collected 4,986 companions and thus earned a place in the history books.

To celebrate the milestone, KingsIsle is giving away a free monolith housing item in both Wizard101 and Pirate 101. You can check out more crazy numbers in the infographic after the break.

Celebrating over 50 million players
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50-million-playersf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgiveawayhousinginfographickid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpiratepirate101pirateswizard101Fri, 28 Nov 2014 18:00:00 -0500319|21000208http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/wizard101-adds-four-new-dungeons/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/wizard101-adds-four-new-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/wizard101-adds-four-new-dungeons/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Wizardry is not a safe profession these days. Wizard101 has grown even more dangerous with the addition of four brand-new dungeons spread across the game's level range, and Massively fully expects multiple online casualties to result from this irresponsible action.

The new dungeons are the snowy Shangri-Baa Mountains (level 25), Barkingham Palace (level 40), the House of Scales (level 60), and Castle Darkmoor (level 100). The latter is vital for wizards seeking a new spell for their arsenal, as a Castle Darkmoor quest will award one new shadow-enhanced card for each school of magic.

The November update came with other improvements to the game, including bypassing combat idlers' turns, more member benefits, and savable equipment sets. We've got a video covering the shadow-enchanced spells for you to watch after the break.

November update, Four dungeons
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dungeondungeonsequipment-setsf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpatchspellsupdatevideowizard101Wed, 19 Nov 2014 16:30:00 -0500319|20996247http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/the-stream-team-win-goodies-while-playing-wizard101/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/the-stream-team-win-goodies-while-playing-wizard101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/the-stream-team-win-goodies-while-playing-wizard101/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
What's better than cool Wizard101 stuff? Free Wizard101 stuff! Massively's MJ is diving into the kid-friendly game to dabble in a bit of magic as well as fishing, and she's got some Mystic Fishing Bundles and Evergreen Bundles to give away to other budding wizards. She'll also be joined by KingsIsle's new community manager, who can answer any questions you have about the Wizards Academy. Join us live at 1:00 p.m. for your chance to nab a few in-game goodies and to watch MJ zap a few foes.

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f2pfamilyfantasyfree-codesfree-to-playgiveawaykid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvwizard101Sat, 15 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0500319|20992910http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/pirate101-adds-tower-of-moo-manchu-tweaks-cool-ranch/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/pirate101-adds-tower-of-moo-manchu-tweaks-cool-ranch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/pirate101-adds-tower-of-moo-manchu-tweaks-cool-ranch/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Are you a high-level pirate in Pirate101? Have you completed all of Mooshu and all of the Moo Manchu side quests? If so you can partake of the Tower of Moo Manchu, a ten-level group dungeon that KingsIsle says is the toughest content that Pirate101 players have ever faced.

This week's update also revamps the world of Cool Ranch with fast transport services and content tweaks including improved drop rates and encounter overhauls. There's plenty more to Pirate101'slatest patch, but you'll need to head to the official site to read it all!

Sept. update
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cool-ranchf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratestower-of-moo-manchuThu, 04 Sep 2014 21:00:00 -0400319|20957495http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/get-free-gifts-for-wizard101s-birthday/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/get-free-gifts-for-wizard101s-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/get-free-gifts-for-wizard101s-birthday/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The magical world of Wizard101 turns six years old today, the perfect age for reveling in gifts and fun! Along with the in-game festivities that include decorations and secret hidden gift-giving packages (even the chance to catch a rare mystery fish!), all players can get a free birthday gazebo for their homes as well as 6,000 gold in honor of the game's sixth birthday. But the presents don't stop there: A new candle on the Wizard101 cake will reveal yet another free item each week throughout the month of September! Additionally, there will be special offers available to in the Crown store, including two brand-new items: the six-year-wizened Grampa Piggle pet and an updated Birthday Snack Pack. To join in the revelry, jump in game and visit the official site to grab your special gifts.

Birthday announcement, KingsIsle press release
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anniversaybirthdayf2pfamilyfantasyfree-giftsfree-to-playgiftsin-game-eventin-game-eventskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentwizard101Tue, 02 Sep 2014 18:00:00 -0400319|20955869http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/wizard101-introduces-fishing/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/wizard101-introduces-fishing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/wizard101-introduces-fishing/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Fishing is the eternal side activity of MMOs, the reason for players to sit about and cast their line over and over in the hopes of receiving something worthwhile. Wizard101 joins the lineup of fantasy games offering a fishing option today with a new patch, although you will be fishing in an appropriately magical fashion. Rather than a mundane line and sinker, players summon magical orbs to help snare fish; the ones they catch can be sold, used for crafts, or displayed as trophies around your house.

If this is the one thing you've been waiting for before you get into the game, you can also take advantage of the new promotional bundle on sale at Target. The Spiral Cup Gauntlet Bundle includes a new housing item, a new pet, new clothes, and a new mount for players, along with either a month's subscription or 5000 crowns. You can pick it up for $39 and then jump right back into casting orbs and looking for fish. Or doing other things, presumably.

Patch notes
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bundlebundlescatching-fishfishfishinghobbiesitem-bundleskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnewsnews-itemspromotionpromotionsside-activitiestargetvideovideosw101wizard101Wed, 16 Jul 2014 14:00:00 -0400319|20932185http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/12/pirate101s-spring-2014-update-is-live/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/12/pirate101s-spring-2014-update-is-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/12/pirate101s-spring-2014-update-is-live/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsPirate101'sspring 2014 update is now live. The patch has added new free-to-play areas, advanced pets, and advanced companions to the game. KingsIsle has published a lengthy list of update notes, and you'll probably also want to take a(nother) look at the update trailer. We've embedded it for you after the break.

Announcement
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f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpiratepirate101pirate101-advanced-petspirate101-spring-updatepirate101-videopiratesMon, 12 May 2014 15:00:00 -0400319|20884306http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/massively-exclusive-pirate101-announces-new-advanced-pet-system/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/massively-exclusive-pirate101-announces-new-advanced-pet-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/massively-exclusive-pirate101-announces-new-advanced-pet-system/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsPirate101's pet system is getting an update, and KingsIsle tells us that a new test realm will soon open its doors to showcase the changes. Pet owners will be able to send their minions on various world-based training missions which will raise their level, unlock talents and powers, and more.

The devs are also adding the ability to PvP in a pet battle arena as well as a new quest that details the new advanced pet system. KingsIsle has penned a lengthy dev diary explaining how everything works. You can read it after the cut.

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dev-diaryexclusivef2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpet-battlepet-battlespet-systempetspiratepirate101pirate101-petspiratespvpMon, 24 Mar 2014 10:30:00 -0400319|20855184http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/pirate101-explains-the-making-of-its-combat-system/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/pirate101-explains-the-making-of-its-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/pirate101-explains-the-making-of-its-combat-system/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
If you're the type of player that likes to know how the sausage is made, then strap on a peg leg and wobble over to a pair of dev diaries explaining the making of Pirate101's combat system!

"One of the systems that reviewers feel stands out the most in Pirate101 is the combat. Combat in Pirate101 has been described as 'deceptively simple' and 'really fun,' but it took years of iteration and changes to finally arrive at the experience that players have today," the devs wrote.

The diaries go through the early prototype of the system, how the team figured out combat sequencing, and the difficulties of getting the camera placement just right. The devs said that once the basic system was in place, adding the extra elements such as reflex talents and bullet time was a blast to do.

Making of Combat I, Making of Combat II
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behind-the-scenescombatcombat-systemdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmaking-of-combatpiratepirate101piratesThu, 06 Mar 2014 19:00:00 -0500319|20844556http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/some-assembly-required-virtual-world-roundup-for-2014-and-beyo/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/some-assembly-required-virtual-world-roundup-for-2014-and-beyo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/some-assembly-required-virtual-world-roundup-for-2014-and-beyo/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Just over two years ago there was a great disturbance, as if millions (or so) of voices suddenly cried out in terror and were suddenly silenced. Yes, something terrible had happened: a beloved virtual world was destroyed. And that left a number of sandbox refugees looking for a new place to call home. At that time, Some Assembly Required offered a roundup of the then available virtual worlds that could possibly offer accommodation, depending on what qualities players most desired in their games.

But as things are wont to, they changed; a lot can happen in the MMOverse in 24 months, from additional features in existing games to new games to the loss of more worlds. So it's time to update this list of virtual worlds to reflect 2014 and beyond. Take a look and see what titles or titles-to-be have the sandbox features that best make a game a home for you.

Yo ho ho and a bottle of yum! It's been a while, but I've recently returned to the Spiral to explore the world of Pirate101, along with my two younger game testers. We enjoyed our time in-game the first time around, and were curious to revisit the game to see what's changed. Would we find a hidden treasure or end up sunk? In this week's MMO Family, we're donning our Tricorn hats and setting sail in Pirate101!

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casualchildrenchildrens-mmosf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playkid-friendlykidskids-gameskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmmo-familyopinionpiratepirate-battlespirate-mmopirate101pirateswizard101Wed, 25 Dec 2013 16:00:00 -0500319|20794909http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/12/wizard101-fulfills-a-childs-wish/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/12/wizard101-fulfills-a-childs-wish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/12/wizard101-fulfills-a-childs-wish/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWizard101 is a kid's game. It's designed to be played and enjoyed by kids. So what does Kingsisle Entertainment do when the Make-a-Wish foundation calls up with a wish from a child who's a big fan of the game? Apparently, the staff brings him in to the studio and surprises him with a brand-new character modeled and designed by the child in question, making him a permanent part of the game. What better way to wrap up a tour of the offices where your favorite game is made, right?

Allan GhostDust and his pet, Lord Snoopie, can be found in Khrysalis as part of a new quest titled "Message in a Bottle." Any player who has completed the "Secret Heart" quest in the region is eligible to take on the new quest. If you'd like to read more about Allan's story, take a look at the full dispatch for your daily dose of heartwarming.

Introducing Allan GhostDust
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childchildrenculturef2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playheartwarmingkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmake-a-wishmake-a-wish-foundationnewsnews-itemsquestspecial-npcspecial-questwizard101Thu, 12 Dec 2013 13:30:00 -0500319|20787463http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/sharks-skulls-and-ships-one-year-of-pirate101/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/sharks-skulls-and-ships-one-year-of-pirate101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/sharks-skulls-and-ships-one-year-of-pirate101/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsPirate101 is a strange beast. It is a family-friendly, free-to-play, colorful MMO with silly characters, simple design, and quirky environments. Adventuring in Pirate101 sometimes demands that you investigate the secrets of a city that literally sits on top of a flying whale or that you and your friends (a fencing crab, perhaps, or a sharpshooting fox) leap onto a flaming, flying pirate ship in order to punch sharks in the face and steal their treasure.

Hidden underneath the silliness, however, is a relatively deep turn-based strategy game designed to engage younger gamers while ensuring their adult counterparts have a good time. KingsIsle Entertainment isn't in the business of making kids games; instead, the studio strives to create titles that kids and parents can play together. The success of Pirate101 in its first year demonstrates that KingsIsle might just be on to something.

Let's take a little peek back on the last 12 months of Pirate101 to examine its major milestones.

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anniversaryAquilabirthdayf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhalloweenhalloween-2013holidaykid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentllamasMake-A-Wishmarleybonemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspiratepirate101piratespremiumwizard101Mon, 28 Oct 2013 15:00:00 -0400319|20755061http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/15/pirate101-celebrates-a-birthday-with-headwear/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/15/pirate101-celebrates-a-birthday-with-headwear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/15/pirate101-celebrates-a-birthday-with-headwear/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
It's been a year on the high seas for Pirate101, and the development team is in a celebratory mood. it's understandable considering how many games don't make it to a year or even out of beta. So from now until October 31st it's time to revel in all the birthday celebrations you want, starting with an entire game decked out in birthday regalia. Which will look a little odd next to the usual pumpkins, but whatever.

The game is also offering two bits of accoutrement for players, veterans and novices alike. All players are eligible to receive a free birthday hat, and the game will also sell a birthday cake eyepatch in the cash shop for a limited time. (The eyepatch looks exactly like you would expect something with that name to look, if it was unclear.) So kick back and enjoy some piratical birthday bliss with a new hat.

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anniversarybirthdaycelebrationf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playhathat-timehatskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnewspiratepirate101piratesupdateupdatesTue, 15 Oct 2013 17:00:00 -0400319|20745852http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/deaf-gamer-connects-educates-through-wizard101/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/deaf-gamer-connects-educates-through-wizard101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/deaf-gamer-connects-educates-through-wizard101/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Even though she can't hear any of the music or sound effects in the game, Kelsey Fireheart professes a strong love for Wizard101. In a guest post on the KingsIsle blog, Kelsey shares a little of what it's like to be a deaf gamer and why this MMO means so much to her.

Shortly after starting her adventures in the game, Kelsey had a profound encounter: "I remember questing in the Pyramid of the Sun of Krokotopia and I bumped into a fellow wizard named Diana Wildheart. She mentioned that she was deaf, and I gasped in astonishment. I replied, I am deaf too! That's when I realized that I could meet fellow deaf gamers through games like Wizard101."

Kelsey said that this friendship made her realize that MMOs could be used for more than just fun and to educate others about what it's like to be deaf. "This game is a wonderful educational tool that I can use to teach countless others and it gave me a way of communicating with no barriers. In fact, it gave me a greater purpose within the game," she wrote. Kelsey said that the visuals of the game are quite important to her and that she wished sign language would be available as in-game emotes.

KingsIsle Blog
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deafdeafnessdisabilitiesdisabilityf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgaming-with-disabilitieskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentsign-languagewizard101Tue, 08 Oct 2013 17:00:00 -0400319|20740618http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/30/the-stream-team-oktoberfest-edition-september-30-october-6/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
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It's that time of year folks! OK, OK -- so it is always some time of year. And most have something of import that happened during said time. But this is Oktoberfest! Yah, I thought that would get your attention. Now, did you know that Oktoberfest is the annual celebration commemorating a royal Bavarian wedding back in 1810? Well now you do! And here you thought that it was only about the sausages and the beer. Who says gaming sites aren't educational?

You can learn other impressive things by watching The Stream Team on Massively TV! Things like how to survive leaping off a cliff, the best places to hide in order to ambush during PvP, and who to avoid high-fives from (especially while in planes). Make sure you don't miss out on any of the important learning opportunities this week.

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a-realm-rebornactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetankamaaocaoc-unchainedarenanetascensionasiabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmoclassic-mmococonanconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfamilyfantasyfefeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfirefallfpsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstgpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhyboriainternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidnappingkids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-britishlucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaming-dynastymmo-shootermobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratesplaneplanesplaystation-3playstation3politicspollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvppwered-5red-5-studiossandboxsci-fantasysci-fisesecret-worldshootersilent-hunter-onlineskill-basedSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixsquenixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstrategystrategy-mmostreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubsubscriptionsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthird-person-shootertortruly-freetswturn-based-combattwitchtwitch-tvultimaultima onlineunchaineduowakfuwarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswastelandsworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpwushuwuxiaMon, 30 Sep 2013 09:00:00 -0400319|20728564http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/23/the-stream-team-derailed-by-cheese-edition-september-23-29/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/23/the-stream-team-derailed-by-cheese-edition-september-23-29/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/23/the-stream-team-derailed-by-cheese-edition-september-23-29/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
It's not my fault! I seriously had plans -- big plans -- for this week's schedule. But then Mr. Lefebvre had to go and derail my entire thought process with his call to cheese. I am not kidding; I cannot think of hardly anything else now. Because cheese really is so wonderful! MMmm...

Oh dang it! There my thoughts went again. Where was I? Oh, yah -- the schedule. Well, instead of trying to fight it, maybe I should just give in. Resistance is futile and all that, right? What harm could there possibly be in a little cheese anyways? Come to think of it, there's always a chance that some cheese will be involved in this weeks shows on Massively TV, which is all the more reason to tune into everything. And there's also a good chance that all the crazy Stream Team antics will successfully distract me from my distraction, so let's get to it!

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a-realm-rebornactivisionage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetankamaarenanetascensionasiabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmococonsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdragondragonsdragons-propheteaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentensemble-onlineeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-a-realm-rebornfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-to-playfuncomgpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidnappingkids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaming-dynastymobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratesplaneplanespoliticspollpvppwerunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisesecret-worldskill-basedSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixsquenixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstrategystrategy-mmostreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubsubscriptionsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtortruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmentturn-based-combattwitchtwitch-tvwakfuwarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpwushuwuxiaMon, 23 Sep 2013 09:00:00 -0400319|20726815http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/17/pirate101-begins-testing-on-mac-client/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/17/pirate101-begins-testing-on-mac-client/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/17/pirate101-begins-testing-on-mac-client/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
A life of adventure on the high seas is the sort of thing that appeals to everyone, even people who choose to buy a Macintosh instead of a Windows computer. That's why Pirate101 is adapting the game to a native Mac client, with the test realm version of the client available now. Players will be able to download and install the game at their leisure, although the new client is not currently hooked up to the live servers.

There's no need to sign up for the testing, but not everyone is eligible. Active members and players who have made at least $6 worth of purchases in the last 30 days may download and try the new client; free-to-play players may not. Still, it's easy to become eligible if you really want to jump into some Mac-based piracy, so you can free your computer from having to run at least one game via Boot Camp.

Mac client now available!
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applef2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmacmac-clientmacintoshnative-mac-clientnewspiratepirate101piratestesttest-clientTue, 17 Sep 2013 21:00:00 -0400319|20723365http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/29/wizard101-gives-away-presents-for-its-birthday/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/29/wizard101-gives-away-presents-for-its-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/29/wizard101-gives-away-presents-for-its-birthday/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Happy birthday Wizard101! Starting today, the magical kid-friendly title celebrates turning five years old by offering gifts to players. Besides a confetti cannon to put in their houses, players will also receive other mystery gifts based on how old their accounts are; the longer you've been a Wizard101 player, the more gifts you'll receive!

But why have a birthday when you can have a birth month? The festivities will continue all through September. Until the 30th, there will be decorations throughout Wizard City and special sales in the Crown Shop. Additionally, five new hairstyles and a brand now mount, the Arcus Cloud, are also available.

Birthday announcement
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anniversarybirthdaybirthday-celebrationf2pfamilyfantasyfree-giftsfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnew-mountspecial-dealswizard101Thu, 29 Aug 2013 12:00:00 -0400319|20707079http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/23/check-out-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-kingsisle-artist/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/23/check-out-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-kingsisle-artist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/23/check-out-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-kingsisle-artist/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
What's it like to be an artist working on one of the more visually imaginative MMOs out there? Just ask Melissa Preston, the art lead for Pirate101 who wrote an article looking at what a typical day entails in her job.

She says that one of her favorite parts of the day is reviewing the art book to see progress being made: "All of the pieces have to work together to tell a story and they need to be believable in the same world."

Much of Preston's job is coordinating between departments and her own team to make sure that everything syncs up. She also provides a few pieces of concept art with explanation as to the stories behind each. It's an interesting job that doesn't always get the spotlight in the way that other developer positions do, so check it out and learn a thing or two about what artists do for MMOs!

A day in the life of a KingsIsle artist
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artart-leadartistconcept-artf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmelissa-prestonpiratepirate101piratesTue, 23 Jul 2013 17:30:00 -0400319|20674268http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/make-a-wish-boy-becomes-kingsisle-honorary-producer/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/make-a-wish-boy-becomes-kingsisle-honorary-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/make-a-wish-boy-becomes-kingsisle-honorary-producer/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
We've all heard the incredible dreams that the Make-a-Wish foundation accomplishes for seriously ill children, but what if a boy with brain cancer wanted to tour his favorite game studio and become an honorary producer instead of go to Disney World? No problem: wish granted!

Eleven-year-old Ryan and his family were granted an all-access tour of KingsIsle Studios through Make-a-Wish's efforts. The studio posted an article with Ryan's adventures throughout the day, including a voice recording session, a Pirate101 play session with developers, and time spent learning about what each department does.

Ryan's mother related how important the day was to her son: "For him to see some of the actors and creators in person and see how a game he loves to play is created is just so special. It's something we could never give him and just an amazing opportunity for him."

KingsIsle had a special surprise in store for Ryan at the end of the day. The team created a new Pirate101 NPC named Ryan the Relentless and equipped the character with the sound files from Ryan's recording session that day. Ryan the Relentless and his Yum-n-ade stand will be added to the live game this week.

Ryan's Make-a-Wish visit
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f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playhonorary-producerkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmake-a-wishmake-a-wish-foundationpiratepirate101piratesryanryan-the-relentlesswish-grantedwizard101Tue, 16 Jul 2013 17:00:00 -0400319|20667369http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/08/the-stream-team-building-an-ark-edition-july-8-14-2013/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/08/the-stream-team-building-an-ark-edition-july-8-14-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/08/the-stream-team-building-an-ark-edition-july-8-14-2013/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
You know, most people complain about the rain. Me? I love it! I love dancing in it, washing the car in it... I just plain love it, even more than sunshine. But there reaches a point when you can have too much of a good thing (except MMOs, of course!). So since the rain doesn't seem to want to let up, and I'm not keen on getting flooded (again) and being without power and the ability to game (again), I am looking into building myself an ark!

Of course, this ark needs to be a bit more sophisticated than previous versions. I need my electricity! Who cares about lights? I just need to get my gaming system up and running while I float along. Life without MMOs, either playing or watching on Massively TV, just wouldn't be a happy place! And I, of course, want all my Stream Team buddies along for the ride. Hm, maybe I better plan for a bigger ark...

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activisionagonaionanetarenanetascensionaventurineblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconsoleconsolesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodfeden-eternaleqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedfirefallfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomgaglobal agendaguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmabinogimassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftnexonnexon-americaopen-pvppiratepirate101piratesplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvpred-5red-5-studiosriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinespy-fistreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptpstriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warswarwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 08 Jul 2013 10:00:00 -0400319|20643912http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/24/the-stream-team-the-longest-day-edition-june-24-30-2013/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/24/the-stream-team-the-longest-day-edition-june-24-30-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/24/the-stream-team-the-longest-day-edition-june-24-30-2013/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Recently we experienced the the longest day of the year, seasonally speaking. The fact that it happens in the middle of the night for us North American folks does not diminish the day's grandeur.

But beyond this scientifically proven date, there are other days that totally should be in the running for longest day ever. Like that day where you last in line at the DMV. Or that last day of work before your first vacation in forever, during which you get to see that one concert you've been waiting to see half your life. These have surely earned their space in the annals of longest days. Chances are you've got a few ideas yourself of days that just seem to drag on and on and on, as if time is being stretched infinitely just to taunt you.

We can empathize. So to help that slow-as-molasses time pass by a bit faster, The Stream Team has plenty of live shows on Massively TV to entertain you throughout the week. Feel free to take us along and watch reruns while you are forced to endure never-ending waits; you'll be the envy of the DMV line!

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activisionagonaionanetArcane-Sagaarcane-saga-onlinearenanetascensionaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconsoleconsolesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdfeaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfamilyfantasyfefeaturedfirefallfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstguild-wars-2gw2horrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmabinogimassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermmofpsmv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftnexonnexon-americaopen-pvppiratepirate101piratesplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps2ps3pvpred-5red-5-studiossandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamThe-Westthird-person-shootertortruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warswarwarcraftwastelandsworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 24 Jun 2013 10:00:00 -0400319|20624156http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
With all the talk about bashing stuff lately, I can't help but envision a certain prehistoric child going around whacking everything with a club, "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Of course, who can blame the little tyke? There are definitely times in game that we've all wanted to swing a cudgel or two, be it a nerf design or a just-quitcher-whining bat.

Destructive tendencies can even be harbored in the gentle hearts of your favorite Stream Team hosts. A number of you can surely attest to that. Need proof? Just watch Massively TV and see for yourself. Warning: You may start to feel sympathy for those poor mobs...

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activisionagonaionanetArcane-Sagaarenanetascensionaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconquestconsoleconsolesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdfDotA-2eaelectronic-artseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfamilyfantasyfefeaturedfirefallfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvppiratepirate101piratesplaystation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvpragnarok-online-2red-5red-5-studiosriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessswtortanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamThe-Westthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptorTridektriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warsvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwarcraftwargaming.netwastelandsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowMon, 17 Jun 2013 09:00:00 -0400319|20620057http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
One of the bonuses of having Pirate101 set in the same world as Wizard101 is that the former can benefit from some of the latter's layout. KingsIsle has launched a big expansion for the game that includes some old favorites for veteran players, starting by sending pirate captains to the familiar land of Marleybone. Players will be investigating a war zone they helped inadvertently create while working up through another 15 levels of experience.

The update also adds the new region of Aquila, a new Bazaar system for players to trade goods, and a new tutorial to help players get accustomed to the game. There are also new bosses and transport systems to give players more to do while they sail across the oceans. Last but not least, new companions are scattered through the added regions, and old companions are learning some new tricks. Pirate101 players can log in and start enjoying the update immediately.